Like many of you I am a single parent of young children. I cook at home for, and with, my children almost every night. My boys are great eaters and love all kinds of vegetables and spices, and of course dessert. My five-year-old even knows the difference between broccoli and broccollini.

I find the secret is to prepare food so it tastes good. That may seem obvious, but to season a vegetable with spices as mild as sea salt and pepper can make all the difference in the world to a child. And you won’t need to rely on processed foods to get your kids to eat.

Each month I will share a seasonal recipe that is flavorful and family friendly. Here’s to adding some spice to your life!—Malika